Wedding date: 07/01/2017
Wedding location: Jarred’s Parents House in Point Chevalier
Number of guests: 70
Wedding budget: $10,000
Wedding cost: $14,000
Tell us a little about…
How you first met…
We first met when we were 16 years old, I threw a party while mum was at work, Jarred was the first to fall asleep – everyone thought it would be a great idea to wax his legs, which he completely slept through. In the morning, he was the only person to stay behind and help me clean up – he hasn’t left since.
When you knew it was love…
After being friends for 4+ years, and two weeks into dating – when you know, you know.
The proposal…
We were at home, just chilling out and in typical Jarred style – he pulled the ring box out and said “You better put this on” – a day later he took me to Piha with a picnic and proposed properly.
Tell us a little about…
The ceremony…
Our ceremony was held in Point Chevalier at the in-laws house; we wanted a relaxed, chilled wedding to match our personalities. They have such a lovely home and garden, I was ecstatic when they offered us to have our wedding there.
The reception…
Was held at Kelston Girls College – Auditorium, it was surreal to walk through the doors into our reception as husband and wife – it felt like only yesterday I was sitting in there as a student. It was also a great novelty as the bridesmaids and some guests were also past students. We had a styling company come in to hang draping and fairy lights which totally transformed the venue from school hall to something straight out of a fairytale.
Your favourite memory about the day?
A few weeks after our wedding, Jarred’s mum passed away unexpectedly. We are so happy she was there to witness us get married and celebrate along with her family. We got some really great photos of her which we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
The best thing about having a backyard wedding?
We were able to have everything exactly how we wanted.
What made you decide on a backyard wedding?
We didn’t want the pressure or price tag of having a big fancy wedding, it also helps keep guest numbers down as we just wanted to celebrate with family and close friends.
What are some of the challenges that you faced planning a backyard wedding?
Roadworks, we found out a few days before our wedding that roadworks had been scheduled to start the weekend of our wedding which meant all roads surrounding our location would be closed to the public. After a few phone calls, Jarred’s step-mother was able to speak to someone important enough to delay these until a later date.
What part of the day or planning are you most proud of?
All of it, We are so thankful for all of our families that pulled together to help us get everything organised.
What were your save and splurge items?
Splurge items were photographer and food – as Jarred said I have free reign of the wedding as long as there was good food! Save items were venue and flowers.
What advice do you have for couples who are considering a backyard wedding?
You can’t go wrong – we were able to have the wedding of our dreams, exactly the way we wanted it.
Wedding Dress and Shoes: Dress was from Astra Bridal, but was altered into my perfect dress by Shirley at I Sew 4 U.
Shoes: Silver Glitter converse shoes from ASOS
Hair and Makeup: Amie from Beauty on Demand
Groom’s Suit: Hallensteins
Photographer: Joanna Wickham
Bouquets and Boutonnieres: Aleisha Renee Everlasting Flowers (on Facebook)
Table Florals/Centerpieces: All DIY
Tables: Wood & Wild (on Facebook)
Decorations: Event Styling Co.
Officiant: Honor Freeman
Wedding Cake: The Frosted Crown (on Instagram and Facebook)
Lawn games and wedding signage: When Squirrel Met Bear